Shooting Times & Country Magazine
REHOMING CRISIS LOOMS
Spaniels are just one breed with owners who can’t cope
Spaniel Aid UK is just one of numerous charities that rehomes unwanted dogs. Its latest report makes sobering reading. During August it had 105 surrender requests (people seeking to rehome their spaniels). Most were for cocker dogs under two years of age. Worryingly, the majority had behavioural issues, typically guarding, snapping and biting. Of the dogs offered, the charity fostered 64; the remainder had too many problems for it to be able to cope with them.
In addition, seven dumped dogs came to Spaniel Aid via dog wardens, several times the usual monthly average. These figures are thought likely to continue to rise. Spaniel Aid currently has 62 dogs in long-term foster, along with another 108 dogs in regular foster either being assessed, at the meet-and-greet stage or awaiting home checks before adoption.
Spaniel Aid argues eloquently that, “dog ownership in this country is in a huge mess. We are one small charity. Multiply these figures by all the rescues covering all breeds and the figures will be heartbreaking. And it’s going to get worse. The cost of living crisis is going to have a huge impact. We are very fortunate that we have the funds to help these dogs.
What we don’t have is places for dogs with behavioural issues. We have no room for them, nor does anyone else.”
Spaniel Aid argues that the only answer is a much more responsible approach to breeding: “Only breed if you already have good homes for the puppies. Make sure your dog and bitch have health tests relevant to their breed. Make sure you check out the home you are selling to.
“Similarly, if you are a puppy buyer and the breeder doesn’t ask you any questions or check you out, then they are almost certainly in it for the money. Make sure they have a return to breeder contract. Do your research, then do some more.”
It’s easy in the gundog world to feel quite smug — it’s quite unusual for anyone to acquire a working gundog only to rehome it. However, it’s a reminder, if one is needed, of the huge challenge rescue charities face with the growing number of unwanted pet dogs in this country.